17 industry bodies back EU nanomaterials review

18 June 2013 17:53[Source: ICIS news]

HELSINKI (ICIS)--Seventeen trade bodies representing the chemicals industry and several key end markets that buy from the chemical sector, said on Tuesday that they are backing the European Commission’s latest review of nanomaterials legislation in the EU.

In a joint statement distributed at the Helsinki Chemicals Forum in Finland, the associations said that they backed the conclusion of the Commission’s review on nanomaterials policy that the current regulatory framework adequately and proportionally covers nanomaterials.

The signatories include the European Chemical Industry Council (Cefic), the European Association of Chemical Distributors (FECC), and Plastics Europe, as well as bodies representing the automotive, tyre and crop protection industries.

“In view of the current and upcoming discussions, we call for a balanced policy on nanomaterials, ensuring the protection of human health and the environment, while providing the necessary framework for enhancing innovation, growth and jobs in Europe,” the statement said.

The associations pointed out that nanomaterials could contribute to the solution of numerous societal problems including water scarcity and food sanitation, and that the sector is vital to the continuing competitiveness of European industry.